A Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer carrying a shotgun guards an exit ramp. Credit: Reuters

Royal Canadian Mounted Police are combing the streets and woods of a normally tranquil city hunting for the man suspected of killing three officers in the deadliest attack on their ranks in nearly a decade.

Suspect Justin Bourque, 24, armed with high-powered long firearms, was spotted three times while eluding the massive manhunt that emptied roads and kept families trapped in their homes in Moncton, an east coast city in New Brunswick, where gun violence is rare.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has paid tribute to the three police officers who were killed and the two others who are wounded after being shot by a fugitive gunman in Brunswick, Canada.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has paid tribute to the police officers killed in Brunswick, Canada, as a manhunt for the gunman continues. Credit: Reuters

He said in a statement: “On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I offer our deepest condolences to the families, colleagues and friends of those affected by this tragedy. We also offer our prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured.

“This violent incident is a stark reminder that our men and women in law enforcement put their lives on the line in Canada every day to protect our citizens and communities.

“The sacrifice of these brave officers will be honoured and remembered.

“Our thoughts are with their families and loved ones in their time of need. This is a sad time for the people of Moncton, the people of New Brunswick and for Canada.”

An image of a man wearing army fatigues and carrying two air rifles has been released by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as they search for suspect Justin Bourque, after three officers were shot dead and two wounded in the Canadian city of Moncton, New Brunswick.

Police in Canada looking for Justin Bourque, 24, released this image. Credit: RCMPNB

Police in the Canadian city of Moncton, New Brunswick are urging residents to stay inside with their doors locked as they continue the search for a gunman who killed three officers and wounded two more.